Neighbor accused in toddler death faces death penalty

The neighbor accused of killing 3-year-old Breeann Rodriguez will most likely face the death penalty when the case goes to trial. Shawn Morgan, 44, of Senath is charged with first-degree murder, child porn possession, and child kidnapping.

The jury trial was to begin Dec. 10 in Kennett. But the public defender has filed to continue it. A motions hearing is set for Dec. 10 instead.

Morgan is accused of suffocating Rodriguez with a trash bag after finding her near his pool Aug. 6.

Police recovered her remains and her bike in a floodway 10 days later. Morgan is in Dunklin County Jail without bond. The prosecutor has filed to seek the death penalty. A new trial date is pending.